House encouraged the 6th-to-8th grade students from Hinds County, Jackson Public Schools, Canton, Humphreys County and Choctaw Tribal Schools to set goals and push themselves because hard work and a good work ethic are what it takes to win. He applauded the students for spending one Saturday each month participating in education enrichment and learning about health careers to prepare for the future.

House lost 181 pounds to earn the title of Biggest Loser. He is the first Mississippian to win the title.

This year's STEP sessions will culminate with a closing ceremony March 2. For more information about STEP, call the Division of Multicultural Affairs at 4-1336.